The good news for Notre Dame entering Navy Week is that there were no new injuries following last week’s victory over Georgia Tech. The good news for Notre Dame is that a key starter could return from injury this week. Billy Schrauth started at right guard for the Irish in the first three games, but he has missed the following four due to a right ankle injury sustained in the first half against Purdue on September 14. Schrauth had been listed as “questionable” on the team’s weekly injury report since then, but Irish head coach Marcus Freeman provided new information on Monday.
“Billy Schrauth will be available, but his role has yet to be determined,” Freeman revealed. “It will be based on this week’s practice. We don’t know exactly what his function will be, but he will be available.” Schrauth was on the sideline at Mercedes-Benz Stadium during Saturday’s victory over Georgia Tech. His recovery has been gradual, with a probable return this week when the Irish travel to East Rutherford, New Jersey to face Navy.
“He was able to get some scout periods last week,” Freeman explained. “That was the first time he was able to practice football, not just rehab. However, his abilities were restricted. This week, it will climb much more, although his position is yet unknown.
While Schrauth is nearing his recovery, Mitch Jeter’s immediate future is uncertain. The kicker missed the Georgia Tech game after sustaining a right hip injury in the first half of Notre Dame’s victory over Stanford two weeks ago. “Mitch Jeter will still be questionable,” Freeman stated. “We’ll see if he can give it a go. He tried to warm up (at Georgia Tech) but didn’t feel like he could contribute as much as he should have.”
Zac Yoakam handled extra points and field goals while Jeter was out last week. He scored all four extra points. He was one for two on field goal attempts. He made his first from 42 yards, but missed from 46 yards. With Jeter down, Eric Goins has taken over kickoff duties.
